1980s Schott A-2 Vintage Leather Flight Jacket Black Naked Cowhide

During the 1980s, Schott NYC continued producing civilian A-2 jackets that respected the original military silhouette while allowing the leather itself to take centre stage. The pattern remains true to the classic flight jacket proportions, clean through the back with balanced shoulders, flap pockets and ribbed knits. What distinguishes this period is the use of open-finish naked cowhide, a hide chosen to age honestly rather than conceal wear beneath heavy correction.

This black example was selected for the authority of its leather. The hide remains firm and structured, carrying pronounced creasing and visible surface character developed through genuine wear. Naked cowhide from this era was designed to record movement and handling, and the result is a jacket with tonal depth and natural burnishing across the sleeves, seams and pocket edges. The black has developed a subtle sheen without becoming glossy, preserving both integrity and presence.

The classic A-2 configuration is intact with epaulettes, twin flap pockets and a clean back panel. The waistband and cuffs have been professionally refurbished in the workshop to restore resilience while maintaining the jacket’s original stance. The main zipper retains its original hardware and is now fitted with a period appropriate YKK pull following the failure of the original, ensuring dependable use without altering authenticity.

The leather shows clear, honest distressing consistent with decades of wear. Creasing is well developed, particularly through the sleeves and high contact areas. Stitching and seams remain strong, and the overall structure is sound. There are no structural issues. Overall condition is very good vintage, with firm handle and depth of character appropriate to its age.

This jacket has been specialist leather cleaned in house, then carefully conditioned and finished with our Workshop Blend conditioner to preserve the natural patina rather than mask it. The result is a piece that remains true to its history while ready for continued wear.

A confident and characterful example of Schott’s 1980s A-2 production, chosen for the strength of its hide and the maturity of its ageing.

Key Identifying Features

• 1980s Schott A-2 civilian flight jacket
• Full grain black naked cowhide with naturally developed patina
• Classic A-2 silhouette with epaulettes and twin flap pockets
• Clean single panel back construction
• Firm structured hide with pronounced creasing and surface character
• Waistband and cuffs professionally refurbished
• Original main zipper hardware with period appropriate YKK pull fitted
• Strong stitching and structurally sound throughout

Garment Measurements Laid Flat

• Chest armpit to armpit: 25 inches
• Shoulders seam to seam: 20 inches
• Sleeve length shoulder seam to cuff: 28 inches
• Sleeve length underarm seam to cuff: 19 inches
• Back length collar seam to hem: 25 inches

Tagged size 48. As typical of 1980s US sizing, the fit runs smaller by modern standards and wears closer to a regular XL, approximately a 46 inch chest. Please compare with a similar jacket to ensure correct fit.